Leptospira facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Leptospira
Scanning electron micrograph of Leptospira interrogans.
Scientific classification
Domain:	Bacteria
Phylum:	Spirochaetes
Class:	Spirochaetes
Order:	Leptospirales
Family:	Leptospiraceae
Genus:	Leptospira Noguchi 1917 emend. Faine & Stallman 1982 non Swainson 1840 non Boucot, Johnson & Staton 1964
Species
L. alexanderi L. alstoni L. biflexa L. borgpetersenii L. broomii L. fainei L. idonii L. inadai L. interrogans L. kirschneri L. kmetyi L. licerasiae L. mayottensis L. meyeri L. noguchii L. santarosai L. terpstrae L. weilii L. wolbachii L. wolffii L. vanthielii L. yanagawae
Synonyms
"Ancona" "Canela" "Jequitaia"

This scanning electron micrograph (SEM) shows Leptospira sp. bacteria on a polycarbonate filter

Leptospiras are tiny, spiral-shaped bacteria. They are so small you can only see them with a powerful microscope! These bacteria can move around and are found in many places, especially in warm, wet environments. Some Leptospira live freely in nature, while others can live inside animals.

What are Leptospira?

Leptospira are a type of spirochaete. This means they have a special spiral shape and can wiggle to move. They are very thin and long. You can find them in fresh water, wet soil, and mud, especially in tropical areas around the world. Scientists at places like the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) study these bacteria.

Different Types of Leptospira

There are many different kinds, or "species," of Leptospira. Scientists have found at least 13 named species and even more unnamed ones. Some of these species can cause sickness in people and animals. Others live freely in nature and do not cause harm.

What is Leptospirosis?

Leptospirosis is an illness caused by certain types of Leptospira bacteria. It can affect both humans and animals. The symptoms can be different for everyone. Some people might not feel sick at all, while others can become very ill.

Symptoms of Leptospirosis

If someone gets leptospirosis, they might have a high fever and a bad headache. Other common signs include chills, muscle aches, and feeling like they need to vomit. Sometimes, people might also have yellow skin and eyes (called jaundice), red eyes, stomach pain, diarrhea, or a rash. It is important to see a doctor if you think you might have this illness.